What is Hypnosis?

Image: woman deeply relaxed

It's probably not what you think!

Hypnosis is actually a perfectly natural state of mind which we all experience daily. Being engrossed in a film or a book is an everday form of hypnosis.

Hypnosis in the therapy room is usually a very relaxing experience (a bit like a lie-in on a Sunday morning) where you cannot be made to say or do anything against your will. In fact you are fully aware of everything that is going on, and you are always in COMPLETE CONTROL.

For many people, hypnosis is a very relaxing and enjoyable experience. And the experience is made even better when you begin to notice the beneficial changes brought about by the therapy.

Frequently asked questions - dispelling the many myths about hypnosis

 What is hypnosis?

Hypnosis is a natural and normal state of the mind in which the body experiences a state of deep physical relaxation while the mind remains clear, alert and focused. In this altered state of awareness, the subconscious mind becomes open and suggestible.

A natural state of hypnosis called environmental hypnosis happens to us every day, however most of us are not aware that it is happening! How often have you been driving and caught up in your thoughts and before you know it you have reached your destination without remembering how you got there? When we watch a film or the television we get so enthralled in the drama of the story we forget that we are only watching.

 How can I tell when I'm hypnotised?

It depends on the individual. Some people are more aware of changes felt in their bodies than others. It also depends on how deep into the hypnotic state the person has allowed himself to drift. You may experience sensations of feeling very light or floating, very heavy, tingling sensations, or just pleasantly relaxed.

 What does it feel like to be hypnotised? - Does it feel good?

It feels great! Most people will experience different bodily sensations ranging from limbs feeling very heavy or light, or tingling sensations. Most people feel wonderfully relaxed and enjoy the hypnotic state very much.

 Can anyone be hypnotised?

Yes. Any person who has the ability to focus and concentrate can go into hypnosis. The better you are able to concentrate and focus the easier it is for you to go into the hypnotic relaxation. Above all, the person must be willing. No one can hypnotise you if you don't want to be hypnotised. Your natural defences in your mind will prevent this from happening.

 Will I be asleep or will I know what is going on around me?

No, you are definitely not asleep, though to an observer, your body appears to be sleeping because you are in a state of deep physical relaxation. You are completely awake and aware of your surroundings. I liken it too the feeling you have when you have dozed off on a summers day in the garden. You can hear everything going on around you; move your body if you needed too and can answer easily if someone asks you a question but have that lovely feeling of almost being asleep.

 How does the hypnotherapist put someone into hypnosis?

All hypnosis is self-hypnosis, and the power comes from within the mind of the person being hypnotised. The hypnotherapist is merely the guide who directs and leads the person into the hypnotic state. The hypnotherapist induces the hypnotic trance by using certain words and phrases the subconscious mind understands, as well as using various techniques like deep breathing, imagery and tone of voice.

 Is hypnosis dangerous?

No, hypnosis is not dangerous. It is just a natural state of the mind utilised by the hypnotherapist to help the individual change certain habits or pattern of behaviour. The mind has natural defences built in which will automatically reject any suggestions it deems harmful.

 Is hypnosis 'mind control'?

No, hypnosis is not mind control. All hypnosis is self-hypnosis. The hypnotherapist can not make you do or say anything you ordinarily would not do, unless you wanted to. You always remain in control and are awake and alert the whole time.

 Will I lose control when I'm under hypnosis?

No, you will not lose control while you are in hypnosis. You are fully conscious and very aware of what is being suggested. You are always in control. Your mind will reject any undesired suggestions automatically.

 How much will I remember when I wake up? Will I forget everything that went on?

Most people remember everything that went on while they were in hypnosis, but sometimes, if they went into a particularly deep state, they may forget some of what happened. Sometimes the hypnotherapist will suggest that they will remember everything that has happened, and they do. Other times people have the misconception that they are supposed to forget everything, so they do - because they gave themselves the suggestion to forget!

 How deep into a trance will I go?

That depends entirely upon the individual himself as to how willing he is to enter into the hypnotic state and how far he is willing to let himself go. Some people are naturally able to enter a deeper hypnotic state (somnambulists), while others are capable of entering into deeper states because the have been hypnotised in the past, practice yoga or meditation. It is not important how deep you go, just that you are willing to give hypnosis a chance to work.

 Does the hypnotherapist have any special 'powers'?

Absolutely not! The hypnotherapist is just an ordinary person like you or me. They have had special training to learn how to speak directly to your subconscious mind in a way it understands. There are no Swengalis or hypnotherapists like you see in the movies. The hypnotherapist has no mystical or supernatural powers. Anyone with the same training can learn to hypnotise.

 Can the hypnotherapist make me do things against my will - like a stage hypnotist?

No! A hypnotherapist can not make you do anything against your will, morality or ethics. What you may have seen on stage is pretty much an illusion, and what you may have seen in the movies is fantasy. A hypnotherapist can not call you up on the telephone and order you to rob a bank or murder someone (unless you already wanted to do that.) Your mind has natural defences against harmful suggestions. It will always protect itself.

 What can hypnosis be used for?

Hypnosis can be utilised in many ways, though the hypnotic state not always called 'hypnosis'. Hypnosis is used for entertainment purposes (stage shows) or in a clinical setting such as in hypnotherapy to make positive changes in a person's life. It is used often in the medical and dental fields as well. It is used by psychologists and psychiatrists as an adjunct to their treatments. Self-hypnosis is an integral component in yoga, bio-feedback and meditation. Top athletes are using self- hypnosis when they focus during competition to 'get into the zone'.

 Can hypnosis help me?

Yes, definitely! Hypnosis can be used to make positive changes in your life. Some examples are: stop smoking, lose weight, improve self-esteem and confidence, improve sales ability and memory retention. Practically any bad or destructive habits or behaviours can be removed via hypnosis. It can help ease fears and phobias, improve relationships and communication - the list goes on and on.